Have you heard the rumor concerning the odd, jelly-like balls discovered in a lake in Oklahoma? Their unusual look has led some to refer to them as “alien egg pods.” It’s not necessary to worry about an extraterrestrial invasion, though, so don’t start freaking out!
In reality, these enigmatic creatures belong to a kind of organism known as bryozoans. Despite their alien appearance, these creatures are indigenous to the region and have existed for millions of years. Their existence in the lake actually indicates that the water is clean and the environment is in good condition.
The amazing organisms known as bryozoans replicate themselves to create enormous colonies. They efficiently clean the lake by removing tiny particles for sustenance from the water, just like nature does. In an effort to raise awareness of these unusual creatures, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) has posted pictures of these bryozoans on their Facebook page.
Now, I realize it can be a little unsettling to see pictures of these jelly-like balls dangling from submerged tree limbs. They’ve even been joked about by some as possible would-be body snatchers just waiting to hatch! But rest assured that neither people nor wildlife are in danger from these innocuous bryozoans.
More of these fascinating animals are anticipated to emerge in the lake as summer draws near and the temperature rises. The larger masses of bryozoans are covered in a material called chitin, which solidifies when dried and shields the creature until it can be rehydrated. Bryozoans grow best in water that is warmer than 60°F.
It’s critical to keep in mind that these bryozoans are an inherent component of the ecosystem of the lake. They act as a sign of pure water and improve the general health of the environment. Therefore, if you happen to spot these “alien egg pods” while out on a boat, stop and enjoy the marvels of nature fearlessly for a while.
